The particular best for the dog – according to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but above all, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which food is ideal at which age? Is usually dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be provided? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best dry dog food for border collies, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and clarify how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot endure and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dry dog food for border collies:
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Pooch & Mutt - Calm & Relaxed, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Turkey and...
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£12.98
£15.99 - Royal Canin Medium Adult 7+ Dog Food (4kg) (May Vary) — £28.89
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Bakers Adult Dry Dog Food Beef and Veg 14 kg
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£30.59
£37.50 - IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken,... — £32.70
- HiLife FEED ME! - Complete Dry Dog Food - Tasty Beef Cheese Vegetables -... — £35.40
- The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For All Puppy and Junior Dogs Breeds -... — £37.70
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Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
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£43.00
£47.99 - Arden Grange Adult Performance Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £48.00
- Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Light with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £50.99
- ROYAL CANIN Medium Adult Dog Food For Medium Sized Breeds (11-25 kg) - 15kg — £69.66
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dry dog food for border collies of 2024. We would recommend using Arden Grange Adult Performance Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg as it is one of the best products currently available in market.
Top 10 Best dry dog food for border collies
Best dry dog food for border collies
Arden Grange Adult Performance Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for active adult dogs; Containing potent natural antioxidants and supplements including quercetin; grape seed extract and green tea
- These help to protect your dog and prevent 'wear and tear' by inhibiting the action of destructive free radicals released during stress or strenuous exercise
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives; Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your dog
- Including prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, antioxidants and added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- Naturally hypoallergenic so you won't find any wheat gluten, beef soya or dairy products; This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For All Puppy and Junior Dogs Breeds - 14 Kilograms, Delicate Formula with Lamb and Rice
Features
- Hypoallergenic formula with lamb for puppies suffering from gluten intolerance – this dog food is free from wheat so it is ideal for dogs which have sensitive digestion or suffer from gluten intolerance
- Contains DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) which is a major building block of the brain and is a critical element in the development of vision and the central nervous system – it helps to develop the full potential of the puppy.
- The real label - 200 g of lamb in 1 kg of food corresponds to 800 g of raw meat. In The Hunger of The Wolf dog food we use meal so we do not claim very high content of raw meat only to make the labels look much better to the consumer than they really are. Raw meat may contain 70%-90% water. For example, lamb meal is simply fresh lamb that has already been cooked to remove moisture – this makes it a much more highly-concentrated source of protein.
- No added gluten, free of soya and chemical dyes. No artificial preservatives. Only natural antioxidants.
- A delicious taste your dog will love - by creating this dog food we remembered about ancestors of dogs - wolves, which are true carnivores, therefore, the main ingredient of our food is always meat.
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken, 12 kg
Features
- IAMS for Vitality with fresh chicken for small and medium breed puppies is a 100% complete and balanced pet food that nourishes your puppy's healthy vitality & Supporting 7 signs of healthy vitality
- Contains DHA to promote healthy brain development & With high quality animal protein and essential minerals to support healthy growth
- Contains antioxidant blend with vitamin C & E to help the immune system & Enriched with essential minerals and vitamin D to support strong bones
- Crunchy kibbles and tailored mineral levels for healthy teeth
- Tailored fibre blend including prebiotics and beet pulp for healthy digestion
ROYAL CANIN Medium Adult Dog Food For Medium Sized Breeds (11-25 kg) - 15kg
Features
| Size | 15 kg (Pack of 1) |
Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
£43.00
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for normally active adult dogs; Containing fresh chicken which is a highly digestible protein source
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives; Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your dog
- Including prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, antioxidants and added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- Naturally hypoallergenic so you won't find any wheat gluten, beef soya or dairy products
- This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Light with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for adult dogs that are overweight or prone to weight gain
- Lower in calories and fat than our standard adult diets with the addition of L-carnitine may help to increase the conversion of fat to energy and maintain lean body mass
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives; Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your pet
- Including, prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, powerful natural antioxidants plus added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- Naturally hypoallergenic so you won't find any wheat gluten, beef, soya or dairy products in our recipes; This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
HiLife FEED ME! - Complete Dry Dog Food - Tasty Beef Cheese Vegetables - Soft, Moist & Meaty, 12kg
Features
- HILIFE FEED ME! SEMI-MOIST DOG FOOD - A great alternative to dry dog food, FEED ME! blends beef & chicken proteins with tasty cheese & vegetables, along with all the essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals that, not only helps keep your dog healthy but, also gives them a food they will love to the bottom of their bowl.
- PROMOTES & SUPPORTS YOUR DOG'S HEALTH & WELLBEING - The omega fatty acids, Vitamin A and Zinc contains in HiLife Feed Me! assists with a healthy skin & coat for your dog. The Vitamin A also supports with healthy eyes & vision, and the high quality meat proteins helps to support a healthy body & muscle tone.
- IMPROVES THE IMMUNE SYSTEM & SUPPORTS HEALTHY TEETH & STRONG BONES - Vitamin D and Calcium contained in the Feed Me! recipe aids your dog with healthy teeth and strong bones. The tocopherol-rich antioxidants also help to support your dog's immune system providing natural defences.
- 100% COMPLETE & BALANCED FOOD FOR ADULT DOGS: Your dog will love the soft, moist and meaty morsels in HiLife FEED ME! They’re softer and chewier than traditional dry dog food, with a satisfying mouthfeel. Feed Me! is 100% complete and balanced, and ready to serve straight from the bag.
- HILIFE - OUR STORY: HiLife is a British run business, and for over 30 years, we've been delighting the nation's pets with nutritious and delicious meals. As pet owners ourselves, we understand just how important our canine companions and feline friends can be. We're proud of our pet food because it matters.
Royal Canin Medium Adult 7+ Dog Food (4kg) (May Vary)
Features
- A complete food designed to suit the needs of mature medium sized dogs that are over 7 years of age, but still living an active lifestyle.
- An adapted protein, carbohydrate & fat content is used to maximise digestibility as well as boost overall vitality.
- With an addition of EPA/DHA which are Omega fatty acids known to vastly improve coat shine & supple skin.
- As with all Royal Canin foods, a specialist kibble is used which contains chelation agents found in calcium which reduce tartar formation.
Bakers Adult Dry Dog Food Beef and Veg 14 kg
£30.59
Features
- 100% Complete Complete dog food for adult dogs Perfect nutritional balance for all your dog's daily needs Made with Selected Natural Ingredients
- Recipe using superfoods With Natural Spirulina Algae, known for its beneficial impact on intestinal health With spinach, a natural ingredient contributing to essential minerals
- No added Artificial Colours, Flavours & Preservatives
- Antioxidants to help support natural defences
- Added quality protein to help support muscle strength
Pooch & Mutt - Calm & Relaxed, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Turkey and Sweet Potato, 2kg
£12.98
Features
- Designed to help anxious dogs stay calm and relaxed
- Premium, grain free complete dry dog food
- Includes chamomile, l-tryptophan, prebiotics and brewers yeast
- Single source protein with 45% lean turkey
- Free from grain, cereal , gluten, GM produce, artificial flavours, colours and preservatives
Only the best for the dog – relating to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but above all, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so no problem finding the right food for your own dog. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which food is appropriate at which age? Is dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be fed? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and make clear how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot put up with and how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food quickly
Just as every person has their own own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that moves into the dog’s bowl should come in according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbohydrates, fats, oils, protein and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. More mature dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. Consequently, they want less energy, i. e. calories. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to break down and include a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in words of composition, method of creation and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed includes all the nutrition the dog needs on a daily basis. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins varies depending on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. An entire food can be dry or wet food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the vital nutrients. These can be flakes that the dog owner mixes into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in dog or cat shops and grocery stores usually comes from professional production. This kind of is the most typical form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. With all the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. Nevertheless, some manufacturers of professional dog food use genetically altered raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long corner life. With a few conditions, this dog food can be stored unopened for quite some time without any loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from plant, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or processed. The food should not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Yet , certain synthetic nutritional supplements are permitted. In conditions of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to professional food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dry food.
– Organic dog food must comply with harsher guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product must not contain numerous substances such as genetically altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are variations between the various organic dog foods: “100 per penny organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been highly processed. With the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the organic food are 95 per dollar organic. Whether it states “made with organic”, the product consists of 70 per cent organic ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This dog food does not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , vegetarian and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– A special form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation stands for “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. Once barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often coupled with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually more healthy is debatable. Considering that the meals are assembled individually, barfing is more suitable for experienced dog owners who have studied this diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This kind of is a declaration that needs to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These kinds of are supposed to supply the food a much better smell and preference. Some dog lovers also avoid family pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Big difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried hitch
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is made by first drying the natural materials and then grinding and blending them. A painting tool presses this mass through the spaces of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other aspect. Throughout the dog food production process, temps of about 90 degrees Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the word cold hitting. Yet , temperatures are still significantly lower than those utilized in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These types of must be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During processing, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to produced in this way swells substantially when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been damaged down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food obviously, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food includes more natural substances. In the event the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal system and a disrupted digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is only an extra factor in identifying the tolerability and quality of the food. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – wet food or dried out food?
There exists wet and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food contains almost no water and therefore has a longer shelf life . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew up more and thus train their teeth. Eating dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. To get dogs that drink little, feeding dry food can become a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are given only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The advantages and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less expensive than wet food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more eco-friendly than processed food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to your canine
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink significantly more.
- Can lead to overweight more quickly if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Frequently one package of wet food compares to one meal. Many dogs like wet food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for puppies – once exposed – can only be kept for a few times. It ought to be used up within 2 times of opening. Beneath we have summarised the benefits and drawbacks of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in useful servings
- Since of the high water content in wet food, your canine does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, moist food cannot be stored well
- Major dogs need more space for storage
- Even more difficult to transport and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. Your canine in the end chooses which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your puppy likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
A few dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following applies to both types of food: It should only be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your canine.
How much meat and exactly how many carbs and nutrients belong in dog food?
The caliber of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and healthy diet. It is important that the dog food consists of healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of your dog food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
Simply how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to those of predators. So above all, the resource of meat is important. However , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, as well as needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive enzyme can now break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest plant food in smaller quantities.
Above all, meat provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for the muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy the teeth and nerves and to provide energy for its activities. Therefore, senior dogs have a lower necessary protein requirement because they are not as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 percent meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only various meats for their four-legged friends, this can lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamin supplements, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not found in meat – for instance , vitamins and minerals found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbs. Wolves, for example, eat the stomach and intestinal contents of prey pets, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and require it for their intestinal flora. On the other hand, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from grow waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or hay are often added to the feed. Top quality carbohydrates are located in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the food should contain these substances only in moderation. How much should maintain the dog food is determined by how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated fatty acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency rations and are meant as a hold for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain over loaded omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 natural oils, which are found in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should be in the dog food? Dog food should include 50 to 70 per cent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with high-quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 % high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary minerals and vitamins. The proportion of offal should be a more 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as vitamin h or iron. Great quality oils such as salmon olive oil or linseed oil improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy pores and skin.
How could i recognise top quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These kinds of include:
– Treat and name of the manufacturer
– Date of produce or best-before date of the dog food
– Identity of the meals
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various assertions are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient types. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual uncooked materials, although not their percentage. The open up declaration provides structure in pct and the respective options of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the definition of grain into individual groupings. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed food, maize flour, maize gluten or feed. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but should not be included in too large volumes.
2. The substances in the give food to are listed in descending order according to their volume. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. Conversely, what this means is: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far throughout the list is included in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced substances with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Very little use of flavor enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have trouble digesting good dog food. Signs of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrition in a dog food is detailed under the term “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and pet by-products indicates the meat content in your dog food. Companies often do not declare precisely what is included. It may be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood as well as by-products include fish fillets, bone fragments and fish minds.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and essential oil fruits. They are partially health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and acid regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform regularity of oil and water. Natural antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged friend. They should be included in the right composition, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and trace elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to impact the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal tract flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Sensory additives are used to influence the appearance and taste of the dog food. They include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight canines suffer! Obesity is an increasing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. This can lead to diseases of bodily organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. It may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Yet age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles tend to become overweight. Occasionally the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event that the four-legged friend gets more energy than he utilizes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is vital to give canines the necessary food. Just how much pet food a dog needs will depend on various factors. In addition to the breed, the next aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A puppy that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories from fat and has a slower metabolism. Appropriately, he needs less food.
Age: Younger dogs continue to be growing and in many cases are more curious and active. They usually have a higher energy requirement than older dogs. It truly is recommended to reduce the quantity of food a little annually. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced body fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need to change at the era of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as soon as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. When ever dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can surge or fall, changing energy needs. For example , dogs have different energy needs when they are pregnant or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the calorie content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a reduced amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the next guidelines as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with an ordinary activity level should be about 2 to 3 percent of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 % of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that moves a lot or is coping with an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 % of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 % of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is uncertain about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
Just how can I recognize a food allergy or intolerance?
The most frequent allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of your allergy are, for example , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce allergic reactions. What a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , mi nombre es, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the between an allergy or intolerance and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain substance. A true food allergic reaction rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Likely indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not show up immediately after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. They will may also be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you ought to have the cause clarified with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to handle an different diet. However, this involves a fine deal of effort.
What is an different diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special supply of protein and sugars. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend hasn’t eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little. Following the food change, the dog is fed the new food for several weeks.
When the dog’s condition improves and the symptoms will no longer occur, a provocation test is carried out. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergic reactions. Over time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An elimination diet is something that pet owners can do themselves. Nevertheless, it is recommended to check with a professional or speak to the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is essential during an different diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or leftovers during this time.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no more eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your canine cannot tolerate. The same applies to treats and everything dog snacks between meals.
If practically nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it calls for a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergic reaction no longer happen. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months following the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Dog food often consists of grains. Included in this are wheat or grain, barley and rye, for example. Embryon have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it causes obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, it contains alternate ingredients such as potatoes and legumes, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also suitable for more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to digest vegetable protein. Several types of materials are also specifically easy to break down. Included in this are maize and rice, for example. In some instances, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without feed. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your dog a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too much and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that canines can’t tolerate. Several of them are actually poisonous for dogs. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and natural pork. Onions can be fatal, according to the size of the onion and your dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If a dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get stomach cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky virus, that causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs should not eat include:
- Delicious chocolate
- Raw potatoes
- Vineyard
- Sultanas
- Fruit pits
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Consequently, caution is suggested in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues are located in them. Ashtrays should always be put in such a way that the dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the doctor or the veterinary unexpected emergency service directly. Meanwhile, keep your dog in a safe environment. However, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It might be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that can occur with poisoning include:
- Excessive salivation
- Excessive desire
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that relatives and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. Found in addition, it is important to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat whatever off of the side of the street.
The best choice is the Arden Grange Adult Performance Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg.
Arden Grange Adult Performance Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
- A complete, super premium pet food for active adult dogs; Containing potent natural antioxidants and supplements including quercetin; grape seed extract and green tea
- These help to protect your dog and prevent 'wear and tear' by inhibiting the action of destructive free radicals released during stress or strenuous exercise
Video about best dry dog food for border collies
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and often asked questions about dog food.
What should We look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies have to have a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the truth after about 8 weeks. The components and substances of puppy dog food are specially suitable for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone fragments, muscles, coat and teeth first have to produce.
With pup dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the pup food must contain certain essential nutritional supplements. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than the dog food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions many times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of is determined by the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are viewed as grown ups from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for older persons?
For small dogs, the enhancements made on diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered mature at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to age, the dog’s state of health is also an important criterion. It is recommended to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be kept in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the foodstuff can become “sticky” and lose its flavor and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the English and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is based on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed natural food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be found in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Nevertheless , you should notify yourself well or check with with experts.
What do I actually have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. In the event the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can quickly suffer from digestive problems, a few of which is often considerable. A time of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as comes after: On day 1 and 2, replace about an one fourth of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Within the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the conversion is complete.
In the event that the dog reacts sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food change, you should extend the adaptation phase and increase the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food whatsoever, it is obviously not suitable for him. In this instance, you should look for an alternative.
What should I do if my dog would not like dry food?
After that it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells up in the stomach first. This makes it easier to allow them to become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is much easier to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with soaked dry food.
How quickly do dogs break down dry food?
Puppies usually need up to 14 hours to digest dry out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and scale the dog and the standard of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The quantity of food is also important. Small portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibers remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also leads to faster digestion. Additionally , the more water the meals is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are animal tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out animal experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a list of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for example , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When can I start feeding a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is given breast milk by its mother. Stable food is usually eaten by puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this period, the mother continually feed her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it with a liquid – for example with puppy milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally will no longer given with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a water until the puppy dog is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, blend more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – will it seem sensible?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than purchased food. However, it does have some advantages:
– In the event you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Puppy owners can include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparing and adapt the meals to these and the dog’s taste.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for instance , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it might be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the meals, you should study the several ingredients. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is a good idea to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for puppies. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially ideal for dogs with allergies. It truly is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by your canine. Right now there is hypoallergenic dry out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Accordingly, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that hypersensitive reactions will occur.
Usually there is just one way to obtain proteins in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or normal water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. Even so, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergies. This happens when there is a substance in the food that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergic reactions, hypoallergenic food is well suited for four-legged friends with a sensitive digestive tract. For these dogs, such a product can provide protection against digestive problems.
